Cinco De Mayo is an excellent excuse for a Mexican-inspired cocktail, if you need such a thing, with tequila being the signature spirit of Mexico. However, if you’re not drinking tequila as a shot, your options are shamefully limited. Yes, there are margarita varieties galore and the famous Paloma (or “Cazadores y Squirt” as my Latino friends call it) but, the Tequila Old Fashioned blends the celebratory nature of tequila with the time-honored technique of the classic Old Fashioned.

The oaky tones of the tequila reposado pay homage to the classic whiskey Old Fashioned without being too heavy. Also,  I found Old Fashioned preparation removes much of the burn I’ve experienced with even super-premium tequila.

This recipe is an excellent variation on a classic that delivers tons of flavor without much of the burn. You must try it.

Adapted from Saveur magazine.

Ingredients

MAKES 1 COCKTAIL

1 tsp. agave nectar
2 1/2 inch thick rounds of blood orange cut into quarters, plus peel for garnish
3 oz. of tequila reposado
1-2 dashes bitters

Instructions

Muddle agave and orange slices in a cocktail shaker; add tequila and ice. Stir until well chilled and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Add bitters and garnish with orange peel.